How a Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help
The loss of a family member can be emotionally devastating for all affected, and the impact is often felt financially as well. Medical bills, funeral expenses and lost income can add up quickly. A wrongful death lawsuit could help alleviate some of this stress and provide some much-needed relief.
The first step in a wrongful death case is hiring a qualified lawyer to represent you and your family. A skilled attorney will have the knowledge and experience to handle the details of your case and negotiate with insurance companies. They will also be familiar with your state’s laws, including crucial deadlines like the statute of limitations.
In addition to legal expertise, a wrongful death lawyer should be compassionate and empathetic to the emotional distress of grieving families. They will be able to offer support and guidance during this difficult time, as they understand the intricacies of these types of cases. They can also anticipate the types of defenses that the defendant’s lawyers will use, ensuring you are prepared for court proceedings and settlement negotiations.
To win a wrongful death claim, it must be shown that your loved one died as a result of someone else’s negligent behavior. The defendant must have owed your loved one a duty of care, and they must have breached that duty. For example, if a driver is texting while driving, they are breaching their duty to exercise reasonable care, and this could lead to a fatal accident.
A successful wrongful death suit can recover both economic and noneconomic damages. Economic damages can include funeral and burial costs, lost income, future earnings, inheritance, and more. To calculate these losses, the jury may appoint an economist to examine your loved one’s life expectancy and determine the amount of money they would have earned over their lifetime. Noneconomic damages can include mental anguish, loss of companionship, and other forms of suffering.
The surviving family members of the deceased can file a wrongful death lawsuit in most states, but some have additional requirements. For instance, some states require that the wrongful death lawsuit be brought within two years of the date of death. Your wrongful death lawyer will be familiar with your state’s laws and will make sure you are not missing any important deadlines.
Wrongful death claims can be complex, and the law can vary by state. For this reason, it is best to hire a personal injury lawyer familiar with wrongful death claims. A good lawyer will take the time to evaluate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death and conduct an investigation to uncover evidence. They will also be able to explain how to calculate the value of your claim by using their own network of experts, which can help you get a fair settlement.
In New York, the wrongful death lawyers at Gregory Spektor & Associates P.C. understand how devastating the loss of a family member can be, and they are dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our firm stand up for your rights.